The dreaded tax season is here, though there are volunteers available to help you through the filing process to make it as painless as possible.

The United Way has set up nine help sites across the city. During this filing season, taxpayers can learn if they qualify for EITC, earned income tax credits. It's estimated that as many as 25 percent of those in our community who are eligible for that extra assistance aren't even aware of it.

It's been a rough year for Vickie Claxton of Omaha. "My unemployment, I had an extension and that was my last extension so yeah, I'm fearful for what's about to happen."

Staff members with Volunteer Income Tax Assistance or VITA are taking one weight off her shoulders. "All the people that were here that helped me last year were very cordial, courteous and knowledgeable about what they were doing."

VITA tax preparer Neil Vacek is helping Claxton file her taxes and says it's important for those who may not get a large return to have somewhere to go for help at no cost.

"So you're not paying the 50 or 75 or I've seen $250 for somebody who's going to take five minutes to get their taxes done and if they're only going to get $300 back and they're paying $200 to get their taxes done, it's quite ridiculous to do."

Along with filing taxes, the service also offers free bank accounts, credit reports and financial education seminars. "We encourage, if they're able to, to start investing some of their money just to kind of build their wealth, get them thinking about the future," says Family Housing Services site coordinator Julia Craig.

With the tough economy, Craig says many metro families are seeking assistance and many may qualify for earned income tax credits. Those can add up to several thousand dollars to help pay rent or other bills.

"And they qualify according to their income and how many children they have in their household and all that," says Craig.

For Claxton, getting her taxes filed early is one task she can cross off her list. "I've been on the ball, but I need to get better on the ball to find a job."

If you’re filing a short form return, remember to bring with you your social security card as well as your spouse's and dependents', a photo ID, a copy of last year's tax returns and all W-2 forms.

To make an appointment, call the United Way at 211 for the available times and to find the nearest location. There are several locations that also offer walk-in times.

Click here for a list of locations.